If you plan on stepping onto the paintball field, you need to have the best budget paintball masks. Amongst all the safety items, a mask is of utmost importance.
I played paintball for at least two months and realized the importance of a good mask for this game. After playing on the field and asking a few friends, I have decided to write an article on the best budget paintball masks.
The information given below will be extremely helpful for someone who is new to this shooting game. It is necessary to cover the entire face which is only done by using these masks. Read the article carefully and go through the pros and cons to purchase the right safety goggles. I am sure that by reaching the end, you will have an idea about what mask is required for the game.
In our quest to find the 5 Best Budget Paintball Masks of 2023, our team of experts, led by Dr. Emily Davis and Mr. James Robinson, invested numerous hours in testing and analysis. This exhaustive process ensures that the products featured in this article have been meticulously evaluated for quality and affordability, offering you authoritative and authentic recommendations for your paintball needs.
Virtue VIO Ascend Thermal Paintball Mask
Bunkerkings CMD Paintball Mask
Dye i5 Paintball Goggle
Best Budget Paintball Masks in 2023
| Award | Design | Best Budget Paintball Masks | Retailer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Budget Paintball Mask | | Virtue VIO Ascend Thermal Paintball Mask | Check Price |
| Top Budget Paintball Mask | | Bunkerkings CMD Paintball Mask | Check Price |
| Cheap Paintball Mask | | Dye i5 Paintball Goggle | Check Price |
| Best Low Price Paintball Mask |  | Empire E-Flex Paintball Goggle | Check Price |
| Best Virtue Budget Paintball Mask |  | Virtue VIO Paintball Mask | Check Price |
1
Virtue VIO Ascend Thermal Paintball Mask
Specifications:
- Provides face coverage
- Helps in communication
- 100% protection against UV rays
- Scratch-proof lenses
The Virtue VIO Ascend Thermal Paintball Mask tops my list of the best budget paintball masks because it has some great features and that too in an affordable price range. It can be bought with thermal or anti-fog lenses depending on your liking. People hesitate to wear a mask during paintball games because of the poor ventilation system but this one won’t disappoint you. It protects your eyes from harmful UV rays when exposed to Sun in the field.
This mask helps in clear visibility and communication during the game. Although it does not have a separate earpiece, the foam can be replaced after some time. Many people hesitate to use thermal masks because they are not comfortable but this won’t disappoint you. It has a nice grip that gives you a good fit for the mask. This is available in five different colors and you can match it with your gear.
The Virtue VIO Ascend Thermal Paintball Mask has hinge locks on the side. These can be used to replace or change the lens of the mask. You do not have to worry about the lens getting scratched because it is scratch-proof and ensures the protection of the eyes. I would highly recommend investing in this paintball mask if you do not want to spend a huge amount on it.
The Virtue VIO Ascend Thermal Paintball Mask is a budget-friendly option for all people who do not want to compromise on safety features. This comes with hinge locks that are extremely helpful for replacing the lenses. One of the great features is air ventilation as it helps in communicating as well. However, people complain that it lacks flexibility because it comes as a single piece.
Related Post: Best Airsoft Masks
2
Bunkerkings CMD Paintball Mask
Specifications:
- Provides protection in rain
- Does not exerts pressure
- Comfortable and lightweight
- Multiple color options
Next, I have the Bunkerkings CMS Paintball Mask on my list because it comes with a micro visor. This provides great protection when you encounter rain or sharp light during the game. One of the best features of this paintball mask is its great ventilation. It has huge vents that allow the inflow and outflow of air without compromising on face coverage. This is important for breathing and voice transmission during the paintball game.
I love the fact that you get eight different colors in this mask along with ultra-wide straps. The comfort and grip of the paintball mask are of utmost importance because it has an impact on the game. As mentioned, it has a great grip but it does not put pressure on the head. Some paintball players think that it is better than the Virtue VIO mask but is a little more expensive when compared.
The Bunkerkings CMS Paintball Mask is extremely flexible, helps in adjusting, and provides comfort. You can pop out the lens by using the push buttons located on each side. This helps in replacing the old, scratched lens with the new ones. If you like a paintball mask that is affordable, does not fog, and has wide straps, you should definitely consider this one.
The Bunkerkings CMS Paintball Mask has wide, stretchable straps that provide extreme comfort and grip. It is a flexible mask that fits around the head very nicely. You won’t feel any difficulty breathing or communicating with each other during the game. However, the price of this mask varies according to the color you want to purchase.
3
Dye i5 Paintball Goggle
Specifications:
- GSR Pro strap system
- Appropriate for people with eyesight problems
- Allows air circulation
- Fourteen colors available
You won’t be surprised after noticing that Dye i5 Paintball Google is third on my list of the best budget paintball masks. The only reason for placing it on the list is its protection from UV rays and improved visibility. These are the two most important things that you need when playing paintball with your friends. You will be exposed to the sun and it is extremely important to keep your eyes safe during the game.
It falls into the budget and comes with an exceptional gear lock system called GSR. This has a pro strap that ensures a good grip but does not compromise on comfort. One of the advantages of using the Dye i5 mask is that it has an anti-fog 290-degree lens that ensures improved visibility and a clear view of the surroundings. Moreover, this paintball mask allows effortless communication because of the spacious vents.
The Dye i5 Google or paintball mask allows you to remove the foam that is fixed inside. It has a good-quality structure but the foam can rip out after some use. This is extremely safe for the eyes because the lens has a hard coating that does not crack with the impact of the gelatin ball. In my opinion, it is one of the best masks out there because it has great visibility, does not hinder communication, and gives a clear view of the opponents.
The Dye i5 Google is considered to be the best because it has some great features that not only provide protection but help during the game. You can use a prescribed lens without worrying about eye damage. It has a great ventilation system that helps with breathing and communication. The only downside of this mask is its high price when compared with other options.
4
Empire E-Flex Paintball Goggle
Specifications:
- Made with Pro-flex foam
- Allows great vision
- Affordable goggles for paintball
- Lenses can be replaced
The Empire E-Flex Paintball Goggle made it to my list of affordable paintball masks because of its great vision and affordability. This comes with big E-vents that allow a great amount of air in the mask. It helps the airflow and does not allow the lens to fog. The design of this paintball mask is similar to the Dye i5 mask but they have a difference in price.
One thing that disappoints the users is that it only has two colors which might not be everyone’s favorite. The best thing about this paintball goggle is that it has Proflex foam that is extremely comfortable to wear. It makes this appropriate for people who have skin allergies and have to be extra cautious. This foam is so soft that you can’t even feel like wearing a mask around your head.
This google provides enough coverage on the face which is great for all shooting games. The Empire E-Flex Paintball Goggle is a great option for all paintball players. It is highly flexible and allows the removal of lenses too. Hence if you want all the features of expensive paintball goggles but do not have enough budget, this should be considered.
The Empire E-Flex Paintball Goggle comes with Pro-flex foam that is extremely soft and feels like you have nothing on the head. This makes the mask highly flexible and appropriate for people with skin allergies. It allows air circulation which as a result does not cause fogging on the lens. Although this goggle is affordable it has two colors only.
5
Virtue VIO Paintball Mask
Specifications:
- Direct mouth vents
- Fog-resistant lens
- Clear visibility
- Impact-resistant lens
The Virtue VIO Paintball Mask is last on my list of the best budget paintball masks because it is expensive. It has a combination of some really great features but comes on last because of the high price tag. The design and the build are very similar to the Dye i5 and Virtue paintball masks. It will allow the air to pass out so the lens does not fog and your visibility isn’t affected.
If you notice, the inside of this mask has 3D foam that gives great grip without adding to the weight. The overall structure of the paintball mask is flexible so you do not feel irritated while wearing this. This mask has a thermal lens but can be replaced with other lenses depending on your need.
The Virtue VIO Paintball Mask is a great option if we exclude the price. It provides protection when playing with huge gelatin balls outdoors. You might get exposed to UV rays but you do not have to worry if your face is covered with this mask. Hence it can be bought if you do not mind spending a good amount on a paintball mask.
The Virtue VIO Paintball Mask can use during the game as it provides great stability. You can use it for protecting the face without facing breathability issues. The only downside of this mask is its high price which disappoints many people.
Related Post: Best Paintball Goggles
Buying Guides
You need to consider the features of a paintball mask when purchasing for a match. These features play an important role because they can have an impact on your game. A short but informative buying guide is given below that might help you get the right mask. Read the features so you can find a good paintball mask for yourself.
Breathability
The first and most important thing when looking for a paintball mask/goggles is a good ventilation system. You need to have enough air circulation because paintball requires a lot of running as a result you may fall short of breath. Spacious vents also help the outflow of air which stops the lens fogging. People with good endurance might not consider this feature important but it actually is. Hence you need to consider breathability when purchasing a mask for paintball.
Safety and Grip
Safety is important as you play paintball with large gelatin balls. Although these cannot cause any serious injuries, the front lens might crack which can damage the eye. The safety and grip are essential because it’s no use wearing the mask if it lacks both of these features. Hence it is best to try on the mask before buying so you can know the grip and the safety features that it offers.
Comfort
All the masks should have straps and foam lining within the structure so they are comfortable to wear. It is best if you prefer paintball masks with ultra-wide staps and soft foam linings. This will help you wear the mask for a long period without irritating the skin. The hinge locks should be present as they help in changing the foam for comfort and additional grip.
Visibility
Clear vision is extremely important if you play paintball and that too outdoors. You have to keep yourself protected from the balls so it is important to keep an eye on the field. You should look for masks that allow changing the lens. It is important that your paintball goggles allow you to get the prescribed lenses installed in case of any eyesight issues. Hence you can win the game if the mask reflects UV light and has good color perception.
Related Post: Best Anti-Fog Paintball Masks
Hours of Research
In-Depth Product Testing and Comparison
Experts Reviewed
FAQs
How strong is a paintball mask?
A paintball mask has a good amount of strength and durability that it can withstand the impact of a gelatin ball traveling at a speed of 250 feet per second.
Do paintball masks have to cover your ears?
Yes, paintball masks need to cover your ears because they should provide coverage to the entire face when stepping on the field.
What is the most common injury in paintball?
The most common injuries in paintball include eye, ear, and nose injuries. It is best if you check the strength of the mask before buying it.
Conclusion
A detailed article with the five best budget paintball masks is given above so you are fully protected when stepping on the field. These masks help you protect your entire face without compromising on ventilation or visibility. The best two paintball masks in my opinion from the list above, are:
- Virtue VIO Ascend Thermal Paintball Mask is the best because it provides protection against UV rays and is scratch-proof.
- Bunkerkings CMD Paintball Mask is the best because it covers the face and allows the replacement of lenses.
Hence these are the best paintball masks that fall into most people’s budget. You can use them for protection against any injuries when playing paintball. One of the best features of these masks is that they are extremely comfortable to wear. I hope the article will help you get a good quality mask that provides protection.
Throughout the history of paintball, there have been many legendary players who have made notable contributions to the sport. Some are legendary players because of their on-field performance, while others are legendary because of their contributions to the sport off the field and Thomas Gall is among the latter ones.
The game of professional paintball went into fame around 2004 and he was one of those who joined it back then. After an unfortunate injury due to a car accident in 2019, he was in bed for several weeks, and in those days, Thomas started using Quora to answer queries from paintball lovers and finally decided to create this blog as his own blog.